Economic incentives and social influences to separate used dry batteries at source: A lesson learned from the tourist resort of Hat-Yai, Songkhla Province, Thailand.

Abstract

Problems related to the disposal of used batteries have dramatically increased in the last few decades with the increased use of portable devices. As batteries are usually composed of hazardous substances such as lead, cadmium and mercury, their proper disposal becomes essential. Therefore, the objective of the study reported in this paper was to discover the incentives which may directly motivate households and eventually also hospitality and tourism sector providers, to separate and dispose of used dry batteries properly in the tourism resort of Hat Yai in southern Thailand. This study employed both survey-based and action-research methodologies, in which 400 households from 59 communities were interviewed. Descriptive analysis was then used to analyse the factors likely to promote a culture of proper disposal of dry batteries. Rationality was used to compare relevant theories in the context of the study area. The study found that having convenient fixed locations for collection, particularly at community offices was the most efficient means of encouraging the recovery of used dry batteries from the community, as 88 of the respondents favoured this location. It was finally concluded that the factors motivating proper disposal are encouragement of the activity, cooperation, and time and the continuity of the activity. The main recommendation from this research is to have appropriately located collection places so as to maintain a sustainable environment.

Keywords

• E-waste
• recycling; tourism; used dry batteries
• Thailand